The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Alfred Jimmy Herring (MCSN: 2580654), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Radio Operator, Headquarters Company, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam, on 20 September 1970. While proceeding to an area along the Song Bong River, 25 miles southeast of DaNang to establish an observation post, Lance Corporal Herring’s patrol tripped a booby trap and began receiving heavy rifle fire from a concealed enemy force. Although wounded himself, Lance Corporal Herring checked the condition of the other members of the patrol and reported by radio that the rest of the patrol was either dead or severely wounded. While awaiting the arrival of reinforcements, he was wounded a second time as he courageously and single-handedly repelled three separate enemy attacks while at the same time assisting the other wounded Marines to an area of relative safety and dressing their wounds. After the arrival of the relief force and although mortally wounded, he attempted to assist in the evacuation of his wounded comrades. Only after he was assured that all of the injured Marines had been loaded on the helicopter, did he allow himself to be carried aboard. His bold initiative and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the accounting of seven enemy dead, as well as evidence of enemy wounded who had been removed from the ambush area. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lance Corporal Herring reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.